The Kite Festival
Short Questions
1. What were kites traditionally made of?
- Kites were traditionally made of kite paper and thin wooden frames.
2. How has kite flying evolved over the years?
- Kite flying has evolved with motorized and fiberglass kites.
3. When is Makar Sankranti traditionally celebrated?
- Makar Sankranti is traditionally celebrated on January 13 or 14.
4. Where is the International Kite Festival held?
- The International Kite Festival is held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
5. What is the special market for kites in Ahmedabad called?
- The special market for kites in Ahmedabad is called the Kite Bazar.
6. What are ‘firkees’ used for in kite flying?
- ‘Firkees’ are reels used to roll the special kite-flying thread.
7. What do people apply to the thread for kite flying?
- People apply glue and ground glass to the thread to make it sharp.
8. What are the illuminated kites launched at night called?
- The illuminated kites launched at night are called tukals.
9. Why do businesses come to a halt in Gujarat during the festival?
- Businesses stop because people celebrate Uttarayan with enthusiasm.
10. How do people celebrate the festival at night?
- At night, people fly illuminated kites, adding beauty to the sky.
Long Questions
1. How did kites influence the invention of aeroplanes?
- Over time, the desire to fly led to the creation of box kites, which inspired early aeroplane designs. The principles of kite flying contributed to understanding aerodynamics and air currents.
2. Why do people celebrate the kite festival with such enthusiasm in Gujarat?
- The festival of Uttarayan marks the end of winter and the beginning of the sun’s journey to the northern hemisphere. It is a time of joy where families and friends gather to compete in kite flying.
3. How does the Kite Bazar of Ahmedabad contribute to the festival’s excitement?
- The Kite Bazar stays open 24 hours for a week, allowing people to buy kites and special threads at any time. Skilled craftsmen demonstrate traditional kite-making techniques, attracting both locals and tourists.
4. What role do international participants play in the festival?
- International kite flyers from countries like Japan, the USA, and the UK bring exotic and uniquely shaped kites. Their participation adds a global touch to the event, making it a grand spectacle.
5. How do children and adults participate in the kite festival?
- People of all ages gather on rooftops and open spaces to fly kites, engaging in friendly competition. The excitement grows as competitors try to cut each other’s kite strings, shouting triumphantly when they succeed.
6. What precautions must be taken while using the special kite thread?
- The thread, coated with glass powder, is extremely sharp and can cause injuries if not handled carefully. People need to be cautious while flying kites and avoid getting the thread tangled around fingers.
7. What impact does the kite festival have on tourism in Gujarat?
- The festival attracts thousands of tourists who come to witness and participate in the grand celebrations. Hotels, local markets, and businesses thrive during this period, boosting Gujarat’s tourism industry.
8. How does the festival preserve the traditional art of kite making?
- Skilled artisans continue to use age-old techniques to craft beautiful kites and special threads. This tradition is passed down through generations, keeping the cultural heritage alive.
9. What makes tukals a special attraction at night during the festival?
- Tukals are illuminated box kites that light up the night sky, creating a breathtaking view. They compete with the brilliance of the stars and enhance the festive atmosphere with their beauty.
10. Why do people find kite flying so enjoyable and competitive?
- Kite flying combines skill, strategy, and excitement as participants try to cut their rivals’ kites. The festival’s energy, music, and delicious food add to the fun, making it a thrilling experience for everyone.
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